What are some basic Pennsylvania laws on probate?

Answer by  Dean (4035)

Probate is pretty much the same in all state. All estates are probated when someone dies, regardless of the existence of a will. The state appoints a representative to oversee the process to make sure that all debts are settled and that the proceeds are properly distributed among the heirs.

Answer by  Dean (4035)

Pennsylvania laws regarding probate are complex and extensive. They are detailed in Title 20 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes (the "Probate, Estates & Fiduciaries Code"), which you can find in a law library and at several websites. Even the basic matters that pertain to wills and estates, are too numerous to list here.

Answer by  judithr105 (269)

In Pennsylvania, when a person dies, the Executor goes to the Register of Wills and opens an Estate. An exception is, if a spouse dies, then no Estate needs to be opened, as the spouse's share passes directly to the surviving spouse, with no tax consequences.

Answer by  tschu (417)

First in a probate case you must file a petition to open probate. After that you have to file an offical notice to creditors. If these things are not completed in a timely manir then it will delay inheritance distrubution. Those are the two biggest laws in Penn.